Discover the Local Area

Nestled within the heart of the College Valley, Hethpool House offers guests a truly unique gateway to some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes in Northumberland. Whether you’re looking to step back in time, lose yourself in nature, or explore the quiet majesty of the Cheviot Hills, the local area is packed with unforgettable experiences.

The College Valley

Covering over 12,000 acres of protected countryside, the College Valley is one of the most tranquil and unspoilt regions in the UK. Its rolling hills, dramatic moorland, and crystal-clear burns make it a haven for walkers, cyclists, photographers and nature-lovers alike. Access to the Valley by car is restricted to just 12 vehicle permits per day, helping to preserve its sense of peace and seclusion. Permits must be booked in advance and ensure a quieter, more immersive experience for those who visit.

Hethpool

At the northern entrance of the Valley sits the hamlet of Hethpool — a peaceful collection of historic buildings, with Hethpool House itself at its centre. The hamlet is steeped in character and charm, with views stretching out across the hilltops and grazing sheep dotting the landscape. The nearby Hethpool Linn, a hidden waterfall tucked along the College Burn, is one of the area’s most beautiful and accessible natural features.

The Cheviot

Dominating the skyline to the south is The Cheviot, the highest point in the Northumberland National Park at 815 metres. For keen hillwalkers, reaching the summit is a rewarding challenge, offering panoramic views across the Scottish Borders and beyond. The Cheviot also forms part of the famed Pennine Way, one of several long-distance walking trails that criss-cross the area.

History and Heritage

The College Valley is rich with historical interest, from Iron Age hillforts perched on the ridges to mysterious Neolithic stone circles hidden among the heather. There are also poignant reminders of the area's more recent past, including the remains of wartime aircraft crash sites high on the hills — silent tributes to the airmen who once flew over this rugged terrain.

Wildlife

Nature thrives here. Roe deer, badgers, foxes, hedgehogs and red squirrels inhabit the woodlands, while buzzards, curlews and occasionally golden eagles soar above the hills. Spring and summer bring a blaze of wildflowers, and the quiet stillness of the valley is broken only by birdsong and the bubbling of burns.